5 Things We Love is a shortlist of newly discovered stuff you have got to see, hear, wear, use or eat. What are you loving this week? Send a brief description of your latest favorite thing, where to find it and how much it costs, along with your name and contact info to features@staradvertiser.com.
1. Elvis’ ‘Aloha’ concert now on CD set
Elvis fans who missed the 40th-anniversary screening of "Aloha from Hawaii via Satellite" at the Blaisdell Arena in January — and those who didn’t — will want to pick up the newly released two-CD set (RCA/Legacy Recordings, $13.88). Not only does it feature the complete concert, but also the looser dress rehearsal held a couple of days earlier. The historic show was a benefit for the Kui Lee Cancer Fund, and Presley’s rendition of Lee’s classic "I’ll Remember You" can be heard in both performances. The collection includes five additional songs recorded after the show for the U.S. broadcast, among which are the King’s beloved island-themed songs: "Blue Hawaii," "Ku‘uipo" and "Hawaiian Wedding Song." —Gary Chun
2. Shells, pearls add delicate touch
The words "shell necklace" call to mind the tacky 99-cent strands sold in Waikiki. But the delicate creations of local artist Tiffany Lizares under the label Lino Hau Jewelry showcase just a few lovely shells mixed with pearls and gold chain or wire for $58. Especially pretty is the brand’s Hokulea line, which incorporates a tiny starfish into each piece ($88 for necklace or earrings). Available at Kahala Lifestyles in Kahala Mall or visit shoplinohau.com. —Donica Kaneshiro
3. Picture the view at baseball stadium
If there’s a bad seat at Les Murakami Stadium, Mrs. G and I haven’t found it. It’s a great place to watch University of Hawaii baseball, even with the fake grass. But if you’ve never been there and you want an idea what the view is like from each section, you can see it online before you buy a ticket. Access a specific game date under the "tickets" header at www.hawaiiathletics.com. Then move your cursor over the seating section and a window pops up with a view of the field. Oh, and one more thing: Go ‘Bows! —Mike Gordon
4. Newest taco has Cool Ranch appeal
It was no secret that Taco Bell planned to release another flavor of its massively popular Doritos Locos Taco after the Nacho Cheese version became the fast-food chain’s highest-selling product ever in 2012. What might have come as a surprise locally, however, is that we had to wait nearly a week longer than the rest of the country to try the new Cool Ranch flavor. There’s no point staying upset — now that they’re here, the newest Doritos Locos Taco is worth a brief derailment from whatever diet or exercise plan you might be on. Priced at $1.59 with only 200 calories, you won’t feel bad about feeding the Cool Ranch addiction you didn’t realize you had.
Do yourself a favor though; spend the extra 30 cents and order a Doritos Locos Taco Supreme. The addition of diced tomatoes and sour cream elevates the Cool Ranch flavor (although the calorie count will go up significantly as well).
I’m not going to stop visiting my favorite taco joints like Zaratez Mexicatessen and Taco Kabana, but a quick jaunt to the border at Taco Bell is definitely more of a possibility now that the new Cool Ranch taco is available. Better yet, let’s hope Taco Bell puts these specialty shells on sale in grocery stores so we can add our own fillings! —Jason Genegabus
5. Deluxe oil available at bargain price
A lot of the big beauty brands have recently discovered monoi oil — and they’re charging big bucks for it. But my old standby from college days, Monoi Tiare Tahiti, still sells for less than $10 at Longs Drugs. I stock up when I’m home, buying bottles for myself and a few extras as omiyage. It’s an exotic (and authentic) gift to take to friends on the mainland. Even the New York City fashionistas in my life are hooked on it. Find it at Longs for $8.39 or visit www.monoi.com. —Martha Shade, Atlanta